Bayshore, Bartow Must Battle Again

The Florida High School Activities Association last year wanted to add Arcadia DeSoto, Wauchula Hardee and Sebring to Class AAA, District 6 football. No thank you, they said.

The trio preferred to avoid playing Bartow, Lake Wales and Bradenton Bayshore. ''In a nutshell, nobody wants to play teams in this district,'' Haines City Coach Don Stowers said.

Bartow is defending Class AAA state champ. Coach Paul Quinn is 259-70-10, with three championships in 31 years.

BARTOW (11-2, 4-0) -- Much of the Jackets' offensive line graduated, but nine defensive starters are back. Junior fullback Andrew Berrien, back after being cut for missing practices, has received rave reviews. Quarterback Andre Patterson is one of Quinn's favorite players and teams with center Lee White to lead a rebuilt offense.The defense will be led by back Dwayne Driskell and linebackers Carl Burgess and Rich Morris.

HAINES CITY (3-7, 1-3) -- Although the Hornets won three of their final five games, few veterans -- four offensive and one defensive starter -- return to face a difficult schedule. Quarterback/running back Kevin Cox, tackle Doug Sullivan, guard Scott Corbin and wide receiver Tony Armstrong lead the offense. Linebacker Mark Hawkins is the lone defensive veteran.